Hairdresser: Trevor Sorbie - 4me4you
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4me4you features "The Godfather of Modern Hairdressing".

Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

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4me4you features Trevor Sorbie: The Godfather of Modern Hairdressing

PROCESS

Trevor Sorbie, a pioneering figure in the world of hairdressing, is renowned for his transformative influence on fashion and hairstyling. Born in 1949 in Paisley, Scotland, Sorbie began his career in humble circumstances, apprenticing under his father in a small barbershop. His undeniable talent, passion for innovation, and groundbreaking techniques quickly propelled him to the forefront of the industry. From working alongside Vidal Sassoon to becoming a multi-award-winning hairdresser, Sorbie has revolutionised modern hairstyling while maintaining a steadfast dedication to his craft.

Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Early Career and Rise to Fame

  • Sorbie’s entry into hairdressing began at the age of 15, when he followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather by becoming a barber. He spent five years working at his father’s two-chair barbershop in Essex before enrolling in the Richard Henry School of Hairdressing to refine his skills. His career took off when he joined Vidal Sassoon’s salon, where his talent quickly shone through. By the age of 23, Sorbie was appointed the Artistic Director at Sassoon’s, a position that cemented his reputation as one of the most creative minds in the industry.
Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

  • In 1979, Sorbie opened his first salon in Covent Garden, London, at a time when punk rock was exploding onto the cultural scene. His bold, avant-garde approach to hairstyling attracted the attention of musicians and artists of the era, including icons like Siouxsie Sioux, Adam Ant, and Annie Lennox. His daring and rebellious spirit was epitomised in styles like “The Wolf,” a spiky, punk-inspired haircut that captured the essence of the times.

Innovative Hairstyles and Techniques

  • Trevor Sorbie is celebrated for introducing groundbreaking hairstyling techniques that have shaped the modern industry. His development of the “wedge” haircut, an iconic geometric style, and his popularisation of “scrunch drying” and “the chop” hairstyle in the 1980s made waves across the fashion world. These innovations not only redefined women’s hairstyles but also influenced generations of stylists and trends.
  • Sorbie’s expertise and visionary approach earned him multiple accolades, including four British Hairdresser of the Year awards, and he became the first hairdresser to receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to the industry. His mentoring of leading session stylists such as Eugene Souleiman and Angelo Seminara has also contributed to his lasting legacy as “the Godfather of Hairdressing.”
Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

A Lasting Legacy

  • Today, Trevor Sorbie’s empire includes five award-winning salons, two hairdressing academies, and a global haircare product line. Despite his towering achievements, Sorbie remains grounded and committed to his work. He continues to spend time on the salon floor at his flagship Covent Garden location, sweeping floors, making coffee, and assisting clients—leading by example for the younger generation of stylists.
  • Sorbie emphasises the importance of humility and a strong work ethic. His approach to leadership in the salon mirrors his philosophy: “I want to show young people that if I can do it, they can do it.” This commitment to mentoring and hands-on involvement has cemented his status as not just a leader in the field but as an inspiring figure to countless aspiring hairdressers.
Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Overcoming Personal Struggles

  • Despite his immense success, Sorbie’s journey has not been without its challenges. He has been candid about his battle with depression, which once led to his hospitalisation. “Everyone thinks the road to the top is a smooth ride,” Sorbie has said, “but I want people to understand that there are bumps in the road to success.” His honesty and resilience have endeared him even more to his peers and aspiring stylists, reinforcing the idea that success is as much about perseverance as it is about talent.
Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Trevor Sorbie

Conclusion

  • Trevor Sorbie’s contributions to hairdressing have transcended trends and time, making him one of the most influential figures in the fashion world. His innovative techniques, iconic hairstyles, and dedication to mentoring have left an indelible mark on the industry. From his humble beginnings in his father’s barbershop to becoming a global icon, Sorbie’s career is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of creativity. His influence continues to inspire, proving that even in a rapidly changing industry, true artistry and commitment never go out of style.

WEBSITE: Trevor Sorbie

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